Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a fartlek?
A. Fartlek (which means “speedplay” in Swedish) is a speed training method, in which the speed and intensity varies throughout the run at unplanned intervals. For this program, a 2 mi fartlek would be run by starting out at your normal pace and then speeding up and slowing down at random times throughout the 2 miles. For instance, run to the 1st stop sign and then sprint to the 3rd lamp pole, etc.Q. Can I do something on the other 2-3 days of the week?
A. If your body is not sore or weak and you do not feel like you are getting sick, then feel free to do something on the days of the week that you aren’t running. I do suggest that you take at least one day of rest each week, where you do not workout at all.Q. What does 400 x 4 mean? Why am I doing this?
A. 400 x 4 (and 400 x 6, etc.) means run 400 meters fast (nearly a sprint), walk 400 meters (or jog it slowly), then repeat this process 4 times (or 6, if that’s what it says). 400 meters equals one lap of a 4 lap = 1 mile track. I added this speed work into the program because it will help increase your speed both on the whole and in your finish-line sprints.Q. What is a tempo run?
A. A tempo run is sort of like a dress rehearsal for the race. The pace of your tempo run should be maintainable at a constant pace for the whole distance; near the end of your run, it should become increasingly difficult to maintain the pace but you should not slow down.Q. I have another question; how can I reach you to ask?
A. Feel free to ask me questions through email. Or, for many opinions and a quicker response time, try the forums. Don't be afraid; we are all very nice and many of us have been through what you are experiencing!